Green Party Councillor Lauren Kendall has shared her breast cancer diagnosis, hoping her experience can raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease, and to encourage women to seek medical advice promptly if they notice any changes.

Describing the diagnosis as overwhelming, Lauren spoke candidly about the physical symptoms and the emotional and mental impact of diagnosis:

“This has been the most distressing time I have ever experienced. I have struggled with accepting the diagnosis and facing the treatment that lies ahead, as so many women do. It has completely shaken my sense of identity, the anxiety is immense.”

Lauren is urging women to check and report changes, as breast cancer symptoms are not limited to the most widely known sign of a hard lump. Other changes can include:

• Swelling or thickening of breast tissue
• Changes in size or shape
• Skin dimpling, puckering or redness
• Nipple inversion or unusual discharge
• Persistent pain in the breast or armpit

“I did not have obvious symptoms. A strange red bruise that wouldn’t go away is what prompted me to get checked.

We all must check our breasts regularly and report any difference to the GP. While many changes will thankfully turn out to be benign, getting checked early is so important. Please take the time to know your own body. If something changes, no matter how small or unusual, contact your GP as soon as possible. Don’t wait and persevere if you have to.”

Health professionals advise that any unusual or unexplained change should always be assessed by a GP as early as possible, as prompt diagnosis can significantly improve outcomes.

Lauren also highlighted the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. She experienced a six‑week wait from an urgent (‘red flag’) GP referral to her imaging appointment, despite a two‑week target, and is still waiting for an agreed treatment plan over 80 days after her red flag referral, despite a 62 day treatment target. On one occasion, following her initial appointment and referral, she had to redial and make 51 calls before getting through to her GP practice. This experience significantly heightens anxiety for those awaiting diagnosis and treatment.

“I nearly didn’t go to the GP initially because it is so difficult to secure an appointment. The phone-in triage system is a huge barrier. However, after sending a family member to book for me, I was given a priority appointment. I am so grateful to my GP for recognising the unusual symptoms, that something could be wrong and making a ‘red flag’ referral. She has been very supportive.

“It has been over 80 days since the red flag referral. I have still not started treatment.  Every day is filled with fear, you can’t help but feel that the delays are letting you die. It is a feeling shared by many waiting for the diagnosis and treatment, its torture.”

“I recognise the incredibly hard work of individuals who have, and are, caring for me, our NHS nurses, consultants and healthcare staff are extraordinary. I am also deeply thankful to the Macmillan telephone support teams, who took the time to listen to me when I needed it. There are times when this has felt so lonely.

The healthcare system is under immense strain, the teams are really pressured and that makes an already frightening diagnosis even harder for those going through it.”

Councillor Kendall confirmed her intention to continue representing her constituents wherever possible, while prioritising her health, and encouraged more open conversations about breast health within schools and communities.

“I have shared with my Party colleagues that I would like to continue serving the Holywood and Clandeboye community, although there may be times when this becomes difficult as things progress. I truly hope I can, although I do have a long road of treatment and surgery ahead.

“I am incredibly grateful to my Green Party colleagues who across the Party have kept in regular contact and shown real care, offering help and support, as I have tried to come to terms with this.”

The Green Party has expressed its full support for Councillor Kendall during her treatment and recovery, commending her openness and courage in sharing her experience to help others. Green Party leader, Mal O'Hara said:

"Lauren is a valued friend and colleague. She is a dedicated local councillor and works hard supporting the Holywood and Clandeboye Community. As a party we stand full square behind her and will support her with anything she needs over the coming months.  Sharing her personal story to encourage other women to check their breasts is testament to her courage and commitment for women's health. We all wish Lauren every success with her treatment, a speedy recovery, and look forward to seeing her healthy again."

ENDS